How do you become a personal banker?

1 Education and certification

The minimum education requirement for a personal banker is usually a high school diploma or equivalent, but some employers may prefer or require a bachelor's degree in finance, business, accounting, or a related field. Additionally, you may need to obtain a certification from a recognized organization, such as the American Bankers Association (ABA) or the Institute of Certified Bankers (ICB). These certifications demonstrate your knowledge and competence in various aspects of banking, such as consumer lending, retail banking, wealth management, and compliance. To earn a certification, you typically need to complete a course of study and pass an exam.

2 Skills and experience

As a personal banker, you need to have strong skills in communication, customer service, sales, problem-solving, and numeracy. You also need to be familiar with the banking products and services that you offer, as well as the regulations and policies that govern them. You should be able to explain complex financial concepts and options to your clients in a clear and concise way, and persuade them to choose the best solutions for their needs. Moreover, you need to have some experience in working with customers and handling cash transactions, which you can gain by working as a teller, a customer service representative, or a sales associate in a bank or a financial institution.

3 Job search and application

To find a job as a personal banker, you can use various online platforms, such as job boards, career websites, social media, and networking sites. You can also visit the websites of banks and financial institutions that you are interested in and look for their career opportunities. When you apply for a job, you should tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills, qualifications, and achievements. You should also prepare for the interview by researching the employer, reviewing common questions, and practicing your answers.

4 Training and development

Once you get hired as a personal banker, you will likely receive some on-the-job training from your employer, which may last from a few weeks to a few months. During this period, you will learn about the specific policies, procedures, systems, and products of your employer, as well as the expectations and goals of your role. You will also work under the supervision and guidance of a senior personal banker or a manager, who will provide you with feedback and support. To advance your career as a personal banker, you should seek opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills, such as taking additional courses, attending seminars, reading publications, and joining professional associations.

5 Salary and benefits

The salary of a personal banker may vary depending on several factors, such as your education, experience, certification, employer, location, and performance. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for personal bankers was $43,790 in May 2020, which is slightly higher than the median wage for all occupations ($41,950). However, this figure does not include bonuses, commissions, and other incentives that personal bankers may earn based on their sales and customer satisfaction. Additionally, personal bankers may enjoy benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and discounts on banking products and services.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?